ARTISTS WANTED: OneTree expands to Matanuska-Susitna Borough

Published: April 2, 2012

Palmer, Alaska—The Valley Arts Alliance and University of Alaska Fairbanks are seeking artists to participate in the OneTree project.

OneTree aims to show the value of woodlands by demonstrating the volume and quality of work that can be made from a single tree. The UAF School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences piloted Alaska’s first OneTree project in Fairbanks three years ago. Since then, organizers have developed a full K-12 art and science program and increased community involvement. Visit www.onetreealaska.org for information.

The Mat-Su project, which includes collaboration with the UAF Cooperative Extension Service, will begin in April with the harvesting and drying of one birch tree. Wood from the tree will be distributed to local artists, who will, in turn, use the wood to create items from furniture to abstract art. Teachers are also encouraged to participate and learn more about OneTree K-12 curricula.

The completed works will be displayed at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer Aug. 20 to Sept. 3. Artists keep their work after the fair. Artists wanting to participate must contact coordinators by April 30. Participation is free.

“Join us and watch as the tree is cut down, and then use the wood to create something fantastic,” said program director and UAF assistant professor Valerie Barber.